The Coke Studio journey continues with Episode 2 airing on June 05 2011, presenting a new palette of genres and artists, and conveying yet another kaleidoscopic view on the diversity of music in Pakistan. With Episode 2, expect a selection of fusion songs that pay tribute to the unique and enduring traditions of classical, folk and qawwali music, side by side with modern compositions by popular contemporary artists.

Coke Studio’s second episode will feature Sajjad Ali’s “Kirkir Kirkir”, an up-tempo and lively modern track, with tongue-in-cheek lyrics and a rambunctious jhol on the dholak.

Episode 2 will also introduce a traditional Rajasthani song, “Senraan Ra Baairya” by classical musician Asif Hussain Samraat and Coke Studio houseband member and upcoming pop artist Zoe Viccaji. Sung in an obscure dialect Marwari, this song combines the delicate subtlety of the light classical style of thumri with contemporary accompaniment with Zoe Viccaji’s ambient vocals adding an ethereal dimension to the traditional composition.

Folk legend Attaullah Khan Essakhelvi marks his Coke Studio debut with the second episode of the season, with a poignant rendition of “Ni Oothaan Waale”. In a true representation of the age-old folk tradition of storytelling through song, “Ni Oothaan Waale” narrates a tragic tale of mythical lovers Sassi and Punno with Coke Studio’s contemporary sound offsetting the timeless essence of Esakhelvi’s voice.

The Coke Studio platform also introduces young band Kaavish to audiences with Episode 2. This semi-classical band known for their mellow sound and sweet melodies perform their lowri “Nindiya Re”, with minimalistic percussions and the feather light tonality of the xylophone. “Nindiya Re” features for the first time, drummer and houseband member Louis J. ‘Gumby’ Pinto on the guitars.

Lastly, Episode 2 will also present “Kangna” by the master craftsmen of Qawwali, brothers Fareed Ayaz and Abu Mohammad. “Kangna” is a Qawwali based on classical music and is rendered on Coke Studio in the Raag Malkauns, constructed on a rhythmic foundation of 10-beats per cycle, or jhap-taal.

The voyage continues as Coke Studio explores the depths of musical diversity, spiraling out to encompass the rare and unique and paying homage to Pakistani Music with each new session. Be part of this ongoing journey with Episode 2 on 05 June 2011 06:00 PM and onwards on television channels, radio stations and online, across Pakistan, with a new episode to air every fortnight! In the meantime, keep yourself logged on to www.cokestudio.com.pk to follow the Coke Studio journey.

Coke Studio embarks on its fourth season with a heightened awareness of the invisible depths of the musical foundations upon which it stands. Expanding on the experiences of the previous three seasons, Coke Studio now continues along the path of self-discovery with a fresh perspective on the scale of diversity – of music, poetry, cultures and languages – that exist in Pakistan.

In Season 4 the Coke Studio journey is rich and varied. It takes us deeper into the realm of classical music – introducing promising new talent, highlighting branches of music that have evolved from the classical root and presenting demonstrations of the ancient art form by universally acknowledged maestros. Coke Studio will also be showcasing styles of music that are uncommon yet exceptional and therefore, very precious. In keeping with the Coke Studio tradition of expanding the boundaries of mainstream listening, there is the inclusion of regional language songs. Making valuable additions to the country’s known talent pool, Coke Studio also introduces some gifted, yet virtually unknown singers that have earned a place on this platform due to their skill and talent alone. And providing perfect balance to the musical spectrum of this season, Coke Studio continues to acknowledge the importance of contemporary music via fusion and cross-genre collaboration numbers – featuring pop singers, a diverse range of bands and a house-band that combines the best of eastern and western instrumentation.

About Coca-Cola:

The Coca-Cola Company is the world’s largest beverage company, refreshing consumers with nearly 500 sparkling and still brands. Along with Coca-Cola, recognized as the world’s most valuable brand, the Company’s portfolio includes 12 other billion-dollar brands, including Diet Coke, Fanta, Sprite, Coca-Cola Zero, vitaminwater, PowerAde, Minute Maid and Georgia Coffee. Globally, we are the No. 1 provider of sparkling beverages, juices and juice drinks and ready-to-drink teas and coffees. Through the world’s largest beverage distribution system, consumers in more than 200 countries enjoy the Company’s beverages at a rate of nearly 1.6 billion servings a day. With an enduring commitment to building sustainable communities, our Company is focused on initiatives that protect the environment, conserve resources and enhance the economic development of the communities where we operate. For more information about our Company, please visit our website at www.thecoca-colacompany.com.